Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Visits Williamsport Community Garden
Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding visited The Salvation Army’s Community Garden & Urban Farm in Williamsport this summer. The visit was part of the Shapiro Administration's 2026 Urban Agriculture Tour, a weeklong initiative highlighting innovative projects across the Commonwealth that expand access to fresh food and address the unique needs of their communities.
The stop in North Central Pennsylvania highlighted how The Salvation Army Williamsport Corps’ Community Garden & Urban Farm is increasing access to fresh produce while creating opportunities for education and volunteerism.
The visit came days after Governor Josh Shapiro signed the 2026-27 state budget, which continues funding for agricultural programs that support communities and improve the availability of fresh, locally grown food. The Secretary presented a proclamation from Governor Josh Shapiro recognizing Urban Agriculture Week in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Throughout the week, Sec. Redding visited urban farms and community gardens that demonstrate different approaches to improving the availability of fresh food. In Williamsport, he highlighted The Salvation Army's collaboration with University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Williamsport, volunteers, and local organizations as an example of how urban agriculture can bring people together to provide healthy food.
“The story of urban ag(riculture) is found right here,” said Secretary Redding. “You’ve got this amazing partnership with the UPMC, you’ve got The Salvation Army, all these volunteers and partners with a singular mission – it’s about feeding people.”
Each season, the garden produces more than 10,000 lbs. of fresh fruits and vegetables that are donated directly to the community, helping provide healthy food to neighbors facing food insecurity. It also serves as an outdoor classroom where students and community members can learn about gardening and sustainable food production and grow their own food.
"We are honored to have Secretary Redding choose to visit our garden and see the amazing work happening right here in Williamsport," said Major Sheryl Hershey, The Salvation Army Williamsport Corps Officer. "This garden reflects the many ways The Salvation Army meets people where they are. It provides fresh food for our neighbors, creates opportunities to learn new skills and gives people a peaceful place to gather, volunteer, and connect with one another."
The visit underscored how local collaboration continues to strengthen the garden's impact and support neighbors throughout Williamsport. This year marks the garden’s twelfth year of operation.
The Salvation Army has served neighbors across Lycoming County since 1885. Learn more about The Salvation Army's programs and services in Williamsport at https://pa.salvationarmy.org/williamsport-pa/.